Indian space startup Skyroot Aerospace reached a major milestone with the successful stacking of the first stage of its Vikram‑I rocket at ISRO’s First Launch Pad in Sriharikota.
The achievement marks the first time a privately designed and manufactured orbital launch vehicle has been integrated on ISRO’s iconic launch pad, which has hosted missions like Chandrayaan and the Mars Orbiter. Skyroot shared images of the towering stage being lifted into position, calling it a defining step toward the maiden launch.
Rocket stacking involves lifting and aligning each stage with millimetre precision before integration. Once assembled, the vehicle undergoes electrical, mechanical, and fueling checks ahead of the launch countdown.
Vikram‑I, named after Dr Vikram Sarabhai, is designed to carry small satellites into low‑Earth orbit. The rocket represents India’s most ambitious privately built launch system since the space sector opened to private participation.
The milestone comes nearly three years after Skyroot made history with Vikram‑S, India’s first privately developed rocket to reach space in November 2022. Since then, the Hyderabad‑based company has conducted engine tests, stage qualification trials, and integration activities to prepare for its first orbital mission.
A successful launch of Vikram‑I would demonstrate India’s capability to build and operate orbital‑class rockets through private companies, opening opportunities in the global small satellite market. ISRO’s support in providing launch infrastructure at Sriharikota is enabling startups like Skyroot to accelerate indigenous launch vehicle development.
